Full Breakdown
MLB 2026 Awards: Betting Odds and Favorites
4/1/2026, 8:02:05 AM
Current Favorites for MVP Awards
As the 2026 Major League Baseball (MLB) season commences, the betting landscape for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards is taking shape. Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees is favored to win the American League MVP with odds at +195, while Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers leads the National League MVP race with odds at -135. Ohtani's dominance in the betting market is reflected in his substantial 56.1% share of the handle at BetMGM, indicating strong confidence among bettors regarding his potential fifth MVP award.
In the National League, Juan Soto of the New York Mets, with odds of +700, has garnered the highest ticket count, suggesting significant public interest. Meanwhile, Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies, listed at 30-1, is noted as the sportsbook's largest liability, indicating that a considerable number of bets have been placed on him despite longer odds.
American League MVP Landscape
The American League MVP race appears more competitive, with Bobby Witt Jr. attracting 17.3% of wagers at BetMGM, leading to a shift in his odds from +500 to +450 at DraftKings. Julio Rodriguez has also seen a favorable adjustment, moving from 17-1 to 12-1, and currently holds the most handle at BetMGM. Conversely, Roman Anthony of the Boston Red Sox, with odds of 14-1, is identified as the sportsbook's largest liability, suggesting that bettors are placing significant faith in his potential.
Cy Young Award Contenders
The Cy Young Award race in the National League has become more intriguing following a poor performance by reigning winner Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates, whose odds have shifted from +210 to +350. Cristopher Sanchez of the Philadelphia Phillies has emerged as the new frontrunner with odds at +330. In the American League, Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers leads with odds of +300, closely followed by Garrett Crochet of the Boston Red Sox at +360.
Rookie of the Year Prospects
In the Rookie of the Year category, Konnor Griffin, a highly regarded prospect from Pittsburgh, is attracting significant attention despite not yet being in the MLB, with odds at +600 and over 50% of the handle at BetMGM, making him the sportsbook's largest liability. Sal Stewart of the Cincinnati Reds currently leads the odds at +400.
Conclusion
As the MLB season progresses, the betting odds for the MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year awards will continue to evolve based on player performances and public sentiment. Bettors are closely monitoring these developments, with notable shifts already observed in the early stages of the season.
